Although I turned 50 a couple of years ago and I have never really paid attention to my age (I think I will be 25 in my mind for a long time), I have, at times, been concerned about the over 50 and empty nester’s experiences. One of my good friends, however, recently took action. She turned 50 and decided to make a difference. She researched, found a social and philanthropic organization to become part of, and started the first Blue Thong Society (BTS) Chapter in Missouri. I was a little slow in joining, but joined the group this month.

Blue Thong Society began as an idea of several girlfriends in California. Jokingly, one commented to her friend turning 50 that she could never see her in a Red Hat, but she could see her in a red thong. From there, the spark grew. Soon, the “girls” discussed the fact that there was a need for "a cool and fun group of women to connect both socially and philanthropically. A group to encourage and educate all of our girlfriends from all generations on the benefits of staying hip, beautiful, and chic forever, while we have a little fun and help our communities in the process".

The color blue was chosen because it represents emotions such as sympathy, harmony, friendship, and loyalty, which are a part of the character qualities composure, mutual understanding, and unshakeable trust. These are traits we all want, look for, and count on in the relationships we have with other women in both family and friendships. We are not, as my husband asked, required to wear blue thongs! Some of us take the thong part to the foot. As a matter of fact, when directorship of a chapter changes, it is known as "passing the thong"----pretty sure that is the shoe!

Since I have been a member for less than a month, I am still learning all about this. I went to the library Online Resources, clicked on Magazines and Periodicals, and clicked on General OneFile to find a good article on the Blue Thong Society entitled “Older and Bolder; Women of the Red Hats and the Blue Thongs Butt Heads About Aging.” There are several articles here. I found this to be a great source of information.

I had a nice time with the ladies of our chapter, I am looking forward to our getaway in Branson in December, and I'm looking forward to working to help our community. I am impressed with how the organization is growing. Also, there is networking, opportunities, and other perks that are available. They have a cruise planned for 2011 to Cabo, a long term care program through Prudential for members, and a developing partnership with the Red Cross to name a few. Soooooo, check out this information in the Online Resources, and to be fun, fabulous and philanthropic for all ages, join up to gather together…..do good works…and fight frump!